Although it may not seem like it, skin is an organ and it does require special care.  As you age, your skin becomes thinner and less supple then it once was. Oil glands become less active, meaning your skin gets drier. The good news is that you don’t have to be a millionaire to care for your skin. Even with your busy lifestyle, there are some simple steps you can take to keep your skin looking young and vibrant. Here are some easy ways you can care for your skin without spending a fortune.

Stay out of the sun. Too much sun damages your skin. Your skin ages faster. Ultraviolet light causes wrinkles, spots, dry skin, and even cancer. You should always apply sun screen (at the very least SPF 15) and try to avoid the sun between the hours of 10AM and 4PM. Wear long sleeves and hats to keep the UV rays out.

Drink plenty of water. Water is great for your skin. It flushes out harmful toxins allowing good nutrients in. It also keeps your skin hydrated.

Quit smoking. You shouldn’t smoke for a number of reasons, but it does really do some serious damage to your skin. It causes premature wrinkles. Smoking causes the blood vessels in the skin to narrow, thus blood flow is decreased. Blood of course is what brings in nutrients and vitamins and things like oxygen, which keep the skin healthy and youthful. Evidence suggests that the heat from cigarettes may also cause skin damage.

Use moisturizer. Moisturizers keep the skin moist. They help balance your skin’s natural moisture levels which may be depleted due to stress or environmental factors. During the day, apply a moisturizer containing sun screen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Gently cleanse your skin. Stay away from harsh detergents and soaps. Don’t use hot water for long periods of time as this can dry your skin. Also, remember to gently pat dry rather than vigorously rubbing yourself dry. Skin is delicate. Treat it so.